As I travel to meet clients and people across the globe, I’m often asked about the process of writing a book. More often than not though, I’m also asked about how effective it is in helping to build a professional presence, and of course, a business. As the author of 3 Amazon bestsellers, I think I’m somewhat qualified to answer this question, but let’s get to the basics first, before you decide whether or not it’s worth it for your business.
The LinkedIn Playbook
I’ll start with my experience in writing The LinkedIn Playbook. It wasn’t simply a matter of clearing my diary and settling down to write. The world doesn’t stop so you can take 3 months off to devote to your book. Your business needs you too. It was difficult to try and fit that in, especially when you consider what went into getting to the point of being able to simply write it. Did you know that more than 2,000 hours of research went into perfecting the methodology outlined in the book? And I hadn’t even written a word by then.
The problem of time
Let’s counter that problem I mentioned: the problem of time. When you decide you want to write a book, you have to set aside time to get it done. That means carving out time in a way that doesn’t affect your business operations. Does that sound impossible? It’s not. If you can devote an hour a day, or a slot over the weekend, you can get that book written and published. It may take you a few months, but it will get done. And, if you’re writing a book for all the right reasons, it will be worth it.
Writing a book elevates your professional profile
I’ll move on to the second question I get asked about the process of writing a book: Does it help to build your professional profile and LinkedIn presence? On this one, I answer emphatically: YES. There are several key ways that writing a book can help you build your professional profile and influence on LinkedIn. When you write a book, you:
- Establish expertise and authority: Publishing a book demonstrates your deep knowledge and expertise in your industry and sector. This absolutely helps to position you as an authoritative figure in your industry on LinkedIn.
- Expand your reach and visibility: Promoting your book on LinkedIn enables you to reach a wider professional network and showcase your thought leadership. Writing a book is often linked to growth in followers, engagement, and recognition.
- Can use LinkedIn as a marketing tool for your book and your business: You can publish excerpts, articles, or behind-the-scenes content related to your book directly on LinkedIn. This helps drive traffic to your profile and build your influence.
- Invite collaboration opportunities: Having a published book can open doors to new connections, partnerships, and collaboration opportunities with other industry professionals on LinkedIn.
- Can use your book as a lead magnet: Consider turning excerpts from your book into a downloadable asset. You’ve just created a lead magnet to attract people who may be interested in learning more about you and what you do.
- Build Social Proof and Credibility: The fact that you’ve written a book adds an extra layer of credibility and social proof to your LinkedIn profile, making you more influential and trustworthy.
And that’s just some of the reasons why writing a book helps you build your professional profile and LinkedIn influence.
Will anyone read my book?
Let’s tackle the next most common question I get asked: “Adam, will anyone read my book?” The answer to that question lies in the research you should do before you commit to writing your book. I think if you asked a young Stephen King if he thought anyone would read his books, he was also just as uncertain as you might be. Take the time to research the market, and find a key area you can focus on, or hang your book’s promotional strategies on. Consider framing your book in a way that solves other people’s problems, rather than simply sharing your industry expertise. Remember, people read business books for expert insights because they’re looking to solve a problem they face. Don’t be shy to ask people in your industry, or trusted peers and colleagues, about what they would like to read about. Go beyond that too, and be sure to get a good grasp of what’s already out there, and where the gaps might be.
Hire an editor
Lastly, and I cannot emphasise this point enough: hire an editor. An experienced, qualified, and reputable editor will work with you to ensure your book is of exceptional quality. That’s a key part of ensuring that your book helps you grow your professional profile and your LinkedIn presence. You may be an amazing writer, but you always need an excellent editor. Good luck as you get writing!
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